Specially trained magistrates sit as Tier 1 judges in the Family Court, dealing with public and private law cases
What cases are dealt with by Tier 1 judges in the Family Court?
What is decided by Tier 1 judges in the Family Court?
Public law cases are normally brought by local authorities and can include:
Private law cases are brought by private individuals and can include:
If there is a disagreement about an important fact the court may hold a fact-finding hearing to decide which account is more likely than not to be true. It will consider the evidence and decide on what is called the ‘balance of probabilities’ or ‘civil standard of proof’.
Who sits in the family court?
The Single Family Court (formed in 2014) comprises all tiers of the Judiciary. Tiers 1-3 sit locally and the most senior in the High Court. Cases are assigned based on their type and complexity, but can be easily moved between tiers if appropriate.
How are family court proceedings different from criminal proceedings?
The MA has its own dedicated Family Court Committee with members who are experienced specialists in the area.
If you are attending family court, please visit our list of useful resources where you will find more information.